Correlation of nurses' knowledge, attitude and behavior on pressure ulcer prevention

Abstract

Objective To explore the correlation of nurses' knowledge, attitude and behavior on pressure ulcer prevention. Methods By convenience sampling method, a total of 322 nurses of the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University from December 1st 2015 to January 31st 2016 were selected as the research objects, and they were investigated by the pressure ulcer knowledge assessment tool, attitude towards pressure ulcer prevention instrument and self-assessment questionnaire of nurse's pressure ulcer prevention behavior. SPSS 20.0 software was used to analyze the collected data. Results The score of nurses' prevention knowledge was (13.15±3.05) , and only 21.7% of nurses' score was satisfactory. Standard scores from high to low were nutrition, etiology and development, risk assessment, reduction of pressure/shear, classification and observation, reduction in duration of pressure/shear. The score of prevention attitude was (41.38±3.65) , and 77.0% of the nurses' score was satisfactory. Standard scores from high to low were responsibility in pressure ulcer prevention, impact of pressure ulcers, priority of pressure ulcer prevention, confidence in the effectiveness of prevention, personal competency to prevent pressure ulcers. The score of behavior was (43.97±8.95) , and standard scores from high to low were risk assessment, incontinence care, health education, position and reposition, supporting surface. There was a positive correlation between knowledge and attitude (r=0.191, P<0.01) , knowledge and behavior (r=0.135, P<0.05) , as well as attitude and behavior (r=0.248, P<0.01) . Conclusions Nurses' knowledge on pressure ulcer prevention is insufficient, and their prevention attitude is positive, but they are not confident enough in their abilities. Nurses' prevention behavior is to be improved. Managers should take measures to improve the knowledge, attitude of nurses on pressure ulcer prevention, so as to improve their prevention practice. Key words: Nurses; Pressure ulcer; Knowledge, attitude and behavior model